Knight was recruited by McConnell's wife, former Labor Secretary Elaine Chao, to serve in the role. Knight told the Herald-Leader, of Chao, that it was "a privilege to stand alongside someone who has been such a role model to women in Kentucky and nationwide."

"Like her husband, Secretary Chao recognizes the integral role women have played in both their personal upbringings and professional successes," Knight said.

Knight is a prominent Republican fundraiser and has raised more than $1 million for House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) this year, along with coal magnate and Republican donor Joe Craft.